Centre for Migration Studies Holds Opportunities Project Conference in Partnership with the European Union

The Centre for Migration Studies, at the College of Humanities in the University of Ghana held a conference on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, themed: “Rebalancing the views and policies on migration”. The event was aimed at addressing concerns and promoting fairness between migrants and their host nations. In her welcome address, Prof. Mary Boatemaa Setrana, Director of the Centre for Migration Studies, encouraged attendees to share their narratives of migration freely. She emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of Africans, the youth and women, highlighting key issues to consider, including decolonization and decoloniality, which demanded a critical examination of the history and future of human mobility. Prof. Setrana concluded by encouraging everyone present to participate in the discussions to deepen our understanding of migration matters.

Prof. Mary Boatemaa Setrana, Director, Centre for Migration Studies

In his opening remarks, the chairperson for the event, Prof. Daniel Ofori, Provost of the College of Humanities, emphasized the role of free movement in facilitating trade, labour mobility and development across Africa and the world. He expressed concern about individuals exploiting this freedom for illegal activities, forcing member countries to implement border checks that impede movement. Nonetheless, Prof. Ofori urged all stakeholders to develop alternatives to ensure regular, safe and orderly mobility of humans.

Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori, Provost, College of Humanities

The Deputy Controller General (Finance and Administration) at the Ghana Immigration Service, Mr. Isaac Owusu Mensah highlighted the historical significance of migration, driven by economic, social and political opportunities. He highlighted the valuable skills and cultural contributions that migrants bring, while stressing the need for education to create a more balanced narrative. Mr. Mensah also advocated for fair and humane migration policies, as well as the protection of migrant rights.

Mr. Isaac Owusu Mensah, Deputy Controller General (Finance and Administration), Ghana Immigration Service

Mr. Michel Debruyne, General Coordinator of the Opportunities project, also condemned countries that restrict migrant access or expose them to natural disasters, violate their asylum and infringe upon their migration rights and urged host countries to offer equal opportunities to both citizens and migrants. Mrs. Silvia Tizzi, a European Union (EU) representative, reassured attendees of the  EU’s active support for Ghanaian migrants through educational initiatives. These programmes enable Ghanaian students to study, find jobs and access essential services in European universities, fostering integration and community cohesion. She further reiterated the EU’s commitment to considering the voices of Africans, as well as young people.

Mr. Michel Debruyne, General Coordinator, Opportunities project

Mrs. Silvia Tizzi, a European Union (EU) representative

The final speaker, Mr. Collins Yeboah, Return and Reintegration Officer at the International Organization for Migration (IOM – Ghana), advocated for support for returning migrants. He highlighted the crucial role of the IOM and other stakeholders in providing training, psychological assistance and support mechanisms to safeguard and prioritize the well-being of returning migrants to their home countries, especially Ghana. The successful conference, held at the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) Conference Facility (main auditorium), concluded with a vibrant display of traditional music, dance and drama by the School of Performing Arts.

A cross-section of participants at the event